August 3, 2018

ARTIST FEATURE: Jes Kopitske

Meet Jes Kopitske! She is a glass artist that uses MANY methods and tools to produce unique works of art.

Where are you originally from?

As a kid my family moved a lot! I grew up all over St Louis. I have lived in Soulard, Tower Grove South, Kirkwood, Creve Coeur, and Olivette. I lived in Seattle for a little while after college, but returned to StL and have lived mostly in South City ever since.

How did you begin working with glass?

I really enjoyed pottery in high school, and chose to attend the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. While there, I took my first classes in glassblowing, and I was hooked. When I returned to St Louis I didn’t have a glass studio to work in, but taught ceramics at UMSL for some time. I was thrilled to come back to glass when I discovered Third Degree in 2004, and have been working and teaching here since.

What inspires you?

A lot of my work includes references to nature. I frequently use floral motifs and landscapes as elements in my surface decoration. The process of working glass – the fluidity and life of the material as it is shaped – inspires me as well.

What’s in your toolbox?

I use very traditional tools in the hot shop, relying mostly on the basics; jacks, shears, blocks, and paddles. Once the glass forms are complete, I use more modern technology to create imagery on the surfaces. I use graphic software to create and cut vinyl resists which I apply to the surface, then a sandblaster to remove some of the color and create the unique final product.

What are you working on now?

My latest work is a series of bowls and cups wrapped in a tree line with a misty background layer, and a similar design with the St Louis Arch and skyline.

What experiences do teach and what do you enjoy about teaching?

I teach sporadically in all three studios – from tiles to beads to tumblers. I have worked with students to make so many things! I don’t have a favorite glass project, I just really enjoy the excitement and enthusiasm of our guests as they learn about this amazing material.

What do you love to do when not in the studio?

Most of my outside time is devoted to my sons – we all enjoy playing Minecraft, biking, and hanging out at the park together. I also try to find time to knit, and to putter in the garden.